A multitude of factors exist that would deter the average gamer from trying out Bleach: The Blade of Fate, it being a licensed title based off a popular anime series chief among them. However, don't turn those noses upward so quickly. That'd be a colossal mistake, as you'd be missing out on a highly polished product that, underneath its anime paint job, is actually an extremely refined experience worthy of lauding. It's okay to be a little wary, but unlike the previous poorly conceived anime-based games you've played, this one's the real deal.

Based off the anime series of the same name, Bleach: The Blade of Fate should get gamers excited for the simple fact that its a Treasure title. Yes, the company that brought the gaming populous Gunstar Heroes, Radiant Silvergun, Sin and Punishment: Successor to the Earth, and a whole host of other quality experiences developed Blade of Fate. Do we have your attention now? Echoing the timeless nature of Treasure's previous works, this game provides a fast-paced fighting experience that's easily picked up by newcomers or those whose button-mashing calluses have spawned calluses of their own.


The control scheme helps with accessibility because it offers two ways of performing special attacks. Similar to other games in the genre, performing special attacks requires knowing a certain button combination, and that's wonderful in theory. However, players who just want to enjoy the game but are unable to pull off such maneuvers are usually left out in the cold; that's not the case with Bleach. Using the top screen for combat and the bottom screen for issuing commands and using Spirit Cards, those who find the special attack combinations hard to remember can just tap the "Sp. A" through "Sp. E" buttons on the touch screen. This achieves the same effect as entering a more complex button combination, while allowing for more gamers to enjoy the experience.